After breakfast, we will collect you from your hotel or riad in Fes at 10 a.m. for your Meknes and Volubilis day excursion. However, Morocco For Visitors is flexible enough to meet you at a different time if it is more convenient for you; simply inform us of the time that is most convenient for you. It is a brief journey to the sacred site of Moulay Idriss, which is perched precipitously on the rim of Mount Zerhon and offers breathtaking vistas of the picturesque Moroccan countryside, including Volubilis.
This is a site of pilgrimage for Muslims, as it is believed that those who are unable to participate in the Hajj in Mecca can visit Moulay Idriss five times in their lifetime to attain equal status. Though only Muslims are permitted to access the mausoleum of Idris I of the Idrisid dynasty, the village itself is picturesque and boasts numerous attractive souks. Although he was only in power from 788 to 791 AD, his dynasty is credited with the conversion of Morocco to Islam. Additionally, he was the great-great-great-grandson of the Prophet Mohammed of Islam.
Next, a brief drive will take you to the Roman ruins of Volubilis, which are referred to as Ouallili in the Berber language, meaning “laury flower.” Here, you are free to explore the well-preserved remains of the town, including the Triumphal arch, baths, palaces, and, most notably, numerous picturesque mosaics depicting classical themes from Roman mythology. Volubilis has been granted UNESCO World Heritage Status as one of the most significant Roman locations in North Africa. Meknes is a highly sought-after tourist destination, and Volubilis is one of Morocco’s must-see attractions.
The following destination is the Imperial city of Meknes, which was established as a military garrison in the 11th century. It is now referred to as “the Versaille of Morocco” due to its extravagant design, which was inspired by the regal palaces of Paris and Arabia during the 17th century by Sultan Moulay Ismail, who designated it as his capital.
During its peak, Meknes was encircled by a 45 km wall, arranged in three defensive circles, and guarded over fifty palaces. It also had twenty city gateways. The Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, the royal palace of Dal El Makhzen with its Royal Stables, the beautiful Agdal reservoir, and the nearby granaries and subterranean prison are all noteworthy attractions.
Additionally, the majestic crenulated battlements and gigantic city gates, which are carved with Islamic art and contain Roman marble pillars looted from Volubilis, are also noteworthy. Meknes is enveloped by breathtaking countryside, olive groves, and vineyards, and boasts a more relaxed atmosphere than Fes, as well as an old-fashioned appeal and quaintness. The local souks are a recommended destination for a purchasing expedition due to their extensive and diverse selection, which is frequently significantly less expensive than that of Fes.